In sheltered coastal bays and sand and mud slopes in depths over 20 m (Ref. 48635); also in coastal trawling grounds. Juveniles sometimes in shallow estuaries on algae reefs (Ref. 48635). Sometimes forms schools. Feeds on bottom-living invertebrates. Sexually mature upon reaching 15-17 cm SL. Sometimes caught with handlines and marketed dried (Ref. 9775) or fresh. In Hong Kong live fish markets (Ref. 27253).